Malaysia: Pinoys in Sabah standoff to be deported soon

The Filipinos, some of them armed, who landed in Sabah and engaged Malaysian authorities in a standoff since Tuesday may be deported soon, Malaysia's home minister said Saturday.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said discussions are underway to send the group back to the Philippines, Malaysia's state-run Bernama news agency reported.

"Based on intelligence sources, they are not from a militant or terrorist group. They are supporters of the Sulu Sultanate and I hope, and pray, that they can be deported soon," he said.

While he could not give more details, he said the discussions between the "relevant parties" were meant to avoid any untoward incidents, including bloodshed.

But Hishammuddin also chided parties that spread false information and speculation on the matter.

Such speculation had hinted at implications on Sabah's security, as well as the rights and status of the Sabah people.

"The government will not compromise on the rights and security of the people of Sabah," he said.

The group arrived in Sabah last Tuesday and has been in the area since. — LBG, GMA News

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